With many companies continuing to rely on a remote or hybrid workforce, these unconventional arrangements are not without challenges.

Managers can feel a bit intimidated with the change and unsure how working from home will affect their teams, projects and business unit.

Team members may feel isolated and left out.

Fortunately, there are several ways to effectively manage your remote teams…

• Deploy Tools that Work - The right technology resources must be in place to support remote workers. Ensure they have everything they need - broadband, a laptop, webcam (if not included in the laptop), smart phone, and the proper services and software for collaboration.

• Set Expectations - Setting clear expectations will help keep your team focused on project goals. Establishing regular working hours but remaining flexible with everyone’s schedule will drive productivity. Outlining project plans, tasks and goals as the ways through which you will measure success will instill more confidence.

• Establish Regular Check-Ins - Establishing regular video check-ins with your team shows that you are available to them, ready to listen and open to feedback. Video calls are the best way to have one-on-one and team meetings because communicating over video creates a more personal experience while making everyone feel included. Having weekly one-on-ones or daily team meetings are a great start to establishing a communication routine.

• Over-Communicate... and Then Some - Not only does over-communication help keep your team on task, it lessens the feelings of isolation members may be experiencing. Recognize employees individually or with a call-out during a team meeting. This acknowledgment will let them know you are paying attention to their successes and that you are there to support them.

• Be Engaging - Inject some fun into your team's remote working routine and devise ways to engage them. For example, you could create virtual happy hours or implement video-lunches as part of your weekly schedule as a way to ensure that everyone unplugs from work for a little socializing. This can go a long way toward helping team members cope better with prolonged isolation.

Working from home is not ideal for every company or employee. The remote work technology is there, but understanding how to overcome the “people” challenges with better management and communication skills will position your team for success.

Let’s talk about better ways to connect your remote or hybrid workforce.

Jeff Nolte is President and CEO of CTS, a leading Voice and IT services provider based in Millersville, Maryland. He may be reached at (800) 787-4848 or jnolte@ctsmd.us. Visit: www.ctsmd.us.